Factors affecting conscience-based nursing practices: A qualitative study

Conscience is a guiding factor in nursing practice for delivering the ultimate care. In order to
expand the concept of conscience-based care, factors affecting conscience in nursing practice need to be
identified.
Objectives: The current study assessed nurses’ experiences to explore factors affecting conscience in
nursing practice.
Research design: This qualitative content analysis study employed purposive sampling to reach 14 nurses
working at educational hospitals in Tabriz and Urmia, Iran. Data were analyzed using inductive and
conventional analysis.
Ethical considerations: This research was approved by the Ethics Committee of Urmia University of
Medical Science. Voluntary participation, anonymity, and confidentiality were considered.
Finding: Two themes emerged from our analysis for enhancing conscience in nursing practices, including
environment of professional performance and personal factors.
Discussion: The two important factors for enhancing conscience in nursing practice are environment and
personal factors.
Conclusion: It is necessary to emphasize on religious beliefs, professional commitment, and
communication skills in educational training structure. Also, establishing appropriate management
systems will help nurses to provide moral care.